Haunts, Hops & More: October Events in San Diego

October offers hundreds of reasons to get outside and enjoy San Diego’s famously long summer. And with the month’s festive double-punch of Oktoberfest and Halloween, there are too many to choose from — so in addition to our regular calendar of events, we’ve put together a separate roundup of local ways to celebrate both of October’s greatest hits.

Maker Faire San Diego

The Greatest Show-and-Tell on Earth takes over Balboa Park, where over 250 exhibitors will wow you with inventions, entertainment, crafts, and homebrewed technology — most of it hands-on! Meet local and regional makers from all disciplines and see-hear-smell-touch-taste the fun. Robotics, cosplay, citizen science, art, 3D printing, music, education, wearable technology, and so much more, hosted mainly within the Park’s museums. Great for the whole family or anybody interested in … well, pretty much anything!

La Jolla Art & Wine Festival

La Jolla celebrates the arts while raising money for local school programs with their 10th annual block party. Dog-friendly and packed with activities for all ages, the festival will host over 150 curated artists and 40 craft breweries and wineries. Enjoy excellent food and live music, then try your luck in the silent auction or even adopt a new pet. Valet parking is available, or park offsite and catch one of the free shuttles.

San Diego International Film Festival

San Diego’s showcase for outstanding films features “100 films, parties, celebrities, awards,” premieres, panels, and more at four locations in downtown San Diego and La Jolla. Tickets are available for single showings and events, or grab a festival pass for access to the whole enchilada.

Two Scientists Walk Into a Bar

“50 Scientists. 25 Bars. One Night. All Over San Diego County.” Satisfy your curiosity about topics ranging from astronomy to microbiology to conservation to neurobiology and many more! Find your favorite topic (or your favorite watering hole) on the event website, look for the scientists, and start asking questions.

Borrego Days

In its 53rd year, this small town’s desert festival draws thousands for its weekend-long lineup with parade, air show, car show, live music, and more. Autumn makes for pleasant days (by desert standards) and night skies filled with brilliant stars. Stop by the headquarters of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park for tips on spotting desert flora, fauna, and stunning vistas. Local lodging fills up fast for the weekend, so consider camping in the State Park or daytripping from digs at another local desert community.

Walk to Defeat ALS

This three-mile scenic walk along Mission Bay raises funds and awareness for The ALS Association. Once popularly known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, this cruel and always fatal affliction has no known cure. The disease takes an unusually heavy toll on veterans, who are almost twice as likely to contract ALS than the general public, and over 5,000 new cases are diagnosed annually. Proceeds go toward funding research for a cure and to care for patients with ALS.

San Diego Pet Con

Take your pet out for a special day at a convention just for them! They’ll enjoy giveaways, contests, discounted vaccinations and other care, demonstrations, entertainment, and more. Your ticket price benefits the rescues and shelters who’ll be at the event finding new homes for furry friends.

Oct 5–7, 2018, hours vary: El Cajon Oktoberfest, El Cajon. The German-American Societies of San Diego host a traditional band from Bavaria, serving authentic German fare at this family friendly festival. All ages. $5 – $10

Oct 6, 2018, noon–10pm: Carlsbad Oktoberfest & Family Fall Festival, Carlsbad. Featuring scads of activities and contests for all ages plus the requisite German music and food, this festival’s proceeds all benefit worthy causes. All ages. $5; under 10 free